Smart Boats Change The Onboard Experience

A Farewell and Heartfelt Thank You from JD Yachts

After 25 extraordinary years, JD Yachts will be closing its doors.

This has not been an easy decision—but it’s one we’ve made with deep reflection and immense pride in all that we’ve achieved. We set out to build a company grounded in trust, transparency, and a passion for getting people on the water. We believe we’ve done just that.

To our clients—some of whom have been with us from the very beginning—we owe everything. Your unwavering support and trust shaped our journey. Many of you returned to us time and again for your boating needs, and that loyalty became the foundation of our business. We’re honoured to have helped so many families and individuals realise their dreams of yachting across the UK and the Mediterranean.

To our industry colleagues, tradespeople, and the marinas who welcomed and supported our work—you made this possible. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to excellence within the marine sector gave JD Yachts its wings. We always sought to drive business back into local trades and infrastructures, and we’re proud to have played a part in sustaining that ecosystem.

To our dedicated team—Toby Hawkins and Isabella O’Leary—thank you for your incredible contribution, professionalism, and commitment to our shared mission. You’ve been integral to our journey and success.

A special thank you to our families for your constant support, patience, and belief in us—especially through the demanding times. JD Yachts has always been about more than just boats; it’s been about people, partnerships, and heart.

The current business climate, especially for SMEs in the marine sector, has become increasingly complex and challenging—particularly in relation to post-Brexit trade regulations and the double taxation of vessels between the UK and EU. These conditions have made it nearly impossible to scale sustainably or operate competitively abroad. We believe it’s important to acknowledge how much the industry has changed—and how vital it is to protect what was once a thriving cornerstone of Britain’s maritime heritage.

As we close this chapter, we do so with enormous gratitude for every client, colleague, and friend we’ve met along the way. The memories, the adventures, and the trust you placed in us will stay with us forever.

Thank you for letting JD Yachts be part of your story. We are proud of the legacy we leave behind.

With heartfelt thanks,

Darren & Justin

Off Canvas

Smart-Boats-Change-The-Onboard-Experience

With the world of technology moving towards smart cars, smart homes and a more connected society it is only natural that marine electronics is heading down the same route, says SMG’s Ray Badminton.

SMG already sells a smart boat system, Dokensip, which alerts the owner if their boat has moved, if there is water in the bilges or the battery level is too low.

And advanced technology from the likes of Actisense and Maretron is enabling sophisticated NMEA2000 connected systems of sensors and devices.

“Technology is not only making life easier for boat owners but taking the worry away,” says Ray.

“We are in an exciting time for marine electronics. The smart boat era is changing the onboard experience. Boat owners will have all of the information they require at their fingertips making it easier for them to spend more time enjoying themselves on the water.”

Connectivity speeds

Digital Yacht is continuing to bring greater connectivity speeds and wi-fi onboard with its new WLN10 Smart that allows tablets and mobile devices to connect to existing onboard GPS, AIS and instrument systems.

Wireless charging technology from Scanstrut’s ROKK wireless range is a development in onboard charging that is independently certified to deliver safe charging anywhere on board.

Raymarine’s new ClearCruise AR uses augmented reality to help users makes smarter decisions with navigation objects overlaid on Axiom high definition video displays.

FLIR’s Docksense system uses cameras and video analytics to create a virtual bumper around the vessel.

Should an object such as another vessel or pontoon encounter the virtual bumper, Docksense automatically introduces corrective steering and throttle commands and assist the skipper in guiding the vessel to the berth.

Original Article